Osun Election: Seadogs Urge Tinubu to Reject 'Federal Might,' Ensure Fair Play

The National Association of Seadogs, also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, has issued a strong appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to resist any attempts to influence the Osun State governorship election through federal might. The group emphasized the importance of ensuring a fair and credible electoral process for the upcoming Saturday election.

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The Votes Must Count in Osun Governorship Election

In a statement signed by NAS Capoon Dr. Charles Meribole, the organization called on President Tinubu, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, to act as a statesman by guaranteeing the neutrality of security agencies and ensuring they protect voters. The Seadogs condemned reported pre-election violence and clashes between supporters of different parties, warning that democracy cannot flourish amidst "weaponized institutions and voter inducement."

"Osun State has seen enough bloodshed. The cycle of election-related violence must end. The people deserve a free and fair process, and their votes must count," the statement declared. The group urged Tinubu to direct security agencies to safeguard voters and dispel any notion that "Federal Might" could be used to undermine the electorate's will, stressing that security agencies owe allegiance to the Nigerian Constitution, not individual politicians or parties.

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Osun State has seen enough bloodshed. The cycle of election-related violence must end. The people deserve a free and fair process, and their votes must count.

The Seadogs also cautioned against the excessive deployment of security personnel, which they believe could intimidate voters. They specifically charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to use the Osun election as an opportunity to restore public confidence in the electoral system ahead of the 2027 general elections. The commission was urged to ensure a flawless process from logistical deployment to the final results, preventing past issues like altered results or missing sheets.

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Security agencies owe their allegiance to Nigeria’s Constitution and not to any politician or political party.

Furthermore, the group appealed to political actors to prioritize peace over ambition and hold their supporters accountable. Voters were also encouraged to remain peaceful throughout the election period. The overarching message is a call for a transparent, secure, and violence-free election in Osun State.

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Every troublemaker, no matter how highly placed, must be held accountable.